The theory X and Y leadership model was developed 50 years ago and has been validated by modern research.

The model was proposed by social psychologist Douglas McGregor in his classic book "The Human Side of Enterprise." McGregor's model suggests that there are two fundamental approaches to managing people:

Many managers tend towards Theory X, and generally get poor resultsespecially over the longer term. Enlightened managers mostly use Theory Y, which produces better performance and results, and allows people to grow and develop. Theory X This is the authoritative and traditional style of management. Theory X managers assume that people are lazy, don't want to work and it is the job of the manager to force or coerce them to work. People are viewed as a "cost" that must be monitored and controlled. It is based on three basic assumptions:

1. The average person inherently dislikes work and will avoid it if at all possible. 2. Most people have to be coerced, controlled, directed and threatened to get them to work towards organizational goals. 3. The average person prefers to be directed, avoids responsibility, isn't ambitious and simply seeks security. In practice Theory X managers tend to be autocratic and controlling, and feel it is up to them to ride people and make them do their work (i.e., managers are "policemen"). These managers tend to micro-manage, be extremely task oriented and not put much emphasis on building positive relationships. Little emphasis is shown towards developing a positive work environment, and recognition and appreciation would be rare. People working for these managers tend to be motivated by fear and feel unappreciated. Theory Y This is a more dignified and enlightened management style. Theory Y managers assume people will perform well if treated positively, and that higher order needs dominate most individuals. People are viewed as "assets" that should be valued and developed. It is based on six basic assumptions: 1. The physical and mental effort of work is as natural as play, so the average person does not inherently dislike work. 2. People will exercise self-direction and self-control in order to achieve objectives. 3. Rewards of satisfaction and self-actualization come from the effort to achieve objectives. 4. The average person learns not only to accept but to seek responsibility. 5. Most people have a capacity for imagination, ingenuity and creativity. 6. The intellectual potential of most people is only partially realized.

In practice Theory Y managers tend to be participative when making decisions, and value both results andrelationships. These managers tend to delegate and empower their people because they trust them and feel they will do good work (i.e., managers are "coaches"). Priorities will be given to developing positive work environments, and expressing regular recognition and appreciation. These managers will also feel that people are important and worth developing. People working for these managers tend to feel appreciated and dignified, and will generally have good morale and feel motivated.